A spy in Canaan

the long version

The story of the double life of famed civil rights photographer Ernest Withers--and how a closely guarded government secret finally came to light, told by the journalist who broke the story. Ernest Withers captured some of the most iconic moments of the Civil Rights Movement -- from the rare photo of Martin Luther King, Jr. in repose to the haunting photo of Emmet Till's great-uncle pointing an accusing finger at Till's killers. He was trusted and beloved by King's inner circle, and had a front row seat to history. But what most people don't know is that Withers was an informant for the FBI -- and his photos helped the Bureau identify and surveil the era's greatest figures. This book explores the life, complex motivations, and legacy of this fascinating figure.--Publisher.